Above: “A peony collection arrangement by Winston Flowers.”
Mother’s Day is on May 12. Tick tock! Make sure to do something special for Mom. We know there are plenty of great ideas out there, but sometimes you just need a place to start. To help, we gathered a few ideas we’ve heard about lately. Pick your favorite or bundle a few to express your love and gratitude. Move quickly, because some gifts take time to personalize and spots fill up. Yes, the countdown is on, but don’t panic. There are plenty of pros to help you find something perfect for mom.
NATURAL BEAUTY
Winston Flowers floral arrangements for Mother’s Day celebrates everyone’s favorite early blossom: the peony. Mother’s Day deliveries made Monday, May 6, through Sunday, May 12. You’ll have plenty of gorgeous options, each with exquisite and heavenly scented flowers such as Dutch lilac and garden roses; lush and textured greenery, such as aromatic mint, vines of jasmine, and verdant English ivy; and tones ranging from deep and rich to the softest of pastels. The Peony Fête (top, above), for example, is a lovely choice with ‘coral charm’ peonies tucked into a bed of ruffled ‘shimmer’ garden roses, saturated coral roses, and blush spray roses. Viburnum lightens the overall effect, while sweet pea and lily grass offer a one-of-a-kind fragrance. The Garden Empress (above in white bowl) is the elegant royal treatment, with purple vanda orchids, blossoming ‘red charm’ peonies, amethyst hydrangea and purple lilac. The cascading fuchsia phalaenopsis orchids adds to the drama, assisted by sweet pea, lily grass and gardenia foliage.
CREATING PERFECTION
We love her high standards—she always gave us the best. Now you can appeal to her exceptional taste with fine jewelry from high-end designers or custom-made pieces at Henry C. Reid family-owned jewelry boutique. Its artists hand-forge pieces using centuries-old techniques in a state-of-the-art workshop. They work with customers to offer advice to make sure the final piece is a family treasure. If you’re in a rush (aren’t we all?), you might consider a piece by Simon Pearce. Each one is a work of art, made better by years of experience. It’s a timelessly elegant gift.
TABLE TALK
Have her hang up the apron and treat her to a wonderful meal. Prime has the serious food skills, plus a enviable water view with impressive boats in their slips that will have her forgetting all about her endless To Do list. Be sure to set out your best outfits, not only to meet the dress code at the restaurant, but also to look great in the photos that she’ll cherish for years to come. The restaurant’s Mother’s Day Tradition Brunch Menu will be served from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., while the full dinner menu with specials is offered from 2:30 to 8 p.m. You will absolutely have to make reservations. Head online pronto.
SAY IT IN SPARKLE
You can’t go wrong with jewelry, especially when it shows you gave it extra thought by personalizing your choice. Head over to JL Rocks, where you can consider a custom-made initial bracelet that is one-of-a-kind. Choose 14K rose, yellow or white gold (or layer a few) and the initials that you want—each is separated by a bezel-set diamond. Perhaps one for each child? It can take four weeks for delivery, so you may have to spy something else in store with the special order to follow later. While you’re at JL Rocks, with its unique designs, be sure to ask about Devon Woodhill designs, which are sold in the shop. You should be able to find a nostalgic and beautiful bespoke locket or an initial charm in gold with gem accents. Don’t miss the eye-catching moonstone necklace. The Moon Charm is an 18k yellow or rose gold, moonstone and diamonds. Clearly, moms who design know what other moms want, so you’re in good hands here.
CREATE TIME TOGETHER
Here’s a fun way to let her express her artistic side while also doing what she really loves most: spending time with you. Join the Delamar to learn the art of flower arranging. You’ll enjoy sipping cocktails and creating your own arrangement made of freshly cut flowers, and you’ll be able to bring it home to decorate for a family gathering. All of the materials will be provided. It takes place in Southport on April 30 at 6 p.m. and in West Hartford at 5 p.m. More here.
EYE FOR DESIGN
Is Mom always complimented on her great style? Does she flourish in discussions about art and architecture? Perhaps she’d just love a getaway feel without the drive? Count on the Glass House in New Canaan. This architectural gem is a beautiful property that will inspire her creativity and pamper her love of nature. Also, drop into the Glass House Design Store at 199 Elm Street. While she’ll appreciate that each purchase directly supports the preservation of the Glass House, she’ll also just love the gifts. Consider, for example, the Alpiniste Serving Platter, the Leather Bottle Vases or the impossibly sleek Fish Bowl Flower Vase (above) by J&L Lobmeyr.